* A portion of central California, including the following areas, Kern County Mountains, Mariposa, Madera, and Fresno County Foothills, Sierra Nevada from Yosemite to Kings Canyon, Tulare County Foothills, and Tulare County Mountains.

* From Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening.

* Heavy rainfall will create excess runoff and bring a threat of localized flash flooding, mud slides, rock slides and debris flows, particularly in the vicinity of burn scars. Some roads may become impassable or become washed out. Residents should be alert for rising waters on area streams with the possibility of flooding.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that leadto flash flooding. Flash flooding is a VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take actionshould Flash Flood Warnings be issued.

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 1 TO 3 FEET LIKELY, WITH LOCAL AMOUNTS OF UP TO 4 FEET. The heaviest snow is likely from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning.

* WHERE...Sierra Nevada from Yosemite National Park to the Kern County line.

* WHEN...From Tuesday evening through Thursday evening.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Blowing and drifting snow and local whiteout conditions possible. Hikers and campers over the high Sierra should be prepared for hazardous wintry weather.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is potential for significantsnow, sleet or ice accumulations that may impact travel. Continueto monitor the latest forecasts.

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Providing "weather, water cycle, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy."